On the morning of June 25, Vietnam’s National Assembly voted unanimously to pass the amended Law on Handling of Administrative Violations. All attending delegates approved the law, which notably retains the existing cap on monetary fines for administrative infractions.

Minister of Justice Nguyen Hai Ninh explained that the amendment aims to address pressing technical and procedural issues, particularly those impacting administrative streamlining. “Provisions with major implications for individual or organizational rights, or that would disrupt currently stable practices, have not been revised,” he emphasized.

Adjusting maximum fines was identified as a complex issue requiring extensive analysis and evaluation. Consequently, the revised law does not propose increasing monetary penalties in any areas of state management.

Nonetheless, Minister Ninh noted that in sectors where higher fines may be necessary for deterrence-such as food safety and environmental protection-the Government will instruct drafting bodies to assess and potentially propose comprehensive revisions in the near future.

Faster processing of seized assets

The amended law introduces clearer procedures for managing seized items and vehicles, including options for sale or disposal. Authorities must fulfill specific notification responsibilities before taking action.

The first notice must be issued within three working days of the expiration of the temporary seizure period, and the second within seven working days after the first. Only after the second notice period ends can asset handling proceed.

If seized property is at risk of deterioration, explosion, environmental damage, or harm to public health, authorities may act to process or dispose of it even before the full notice period concludes, in accordance with legal regulations.

Proceeds from the sale of such assets must be deposited in a temporary account at the State Treasury. If the rightful owner or violator fails to claim the assets within the prescribed period, the proceeds will be transferred to the state budget.

The law also mandates that asset handling be carried out transparently, objectively, with proper authority, and in compliance with all relevant legal provisions to ensure fairness in administrative enforcement.

The amended Law on Handling of Administrative Violations takes effect on July 1.

The Vinh